Bushcraft & Survival Instructor Certification
The Coalcracker Instructor Certification is an exclusive, year-long professional development program designed for individuals who want to take their bushcraft knowledge, teaching ability, and leadership skills to the next level.
This program is about far more than learning outdoor skills. Our mission is to develop confident, knowledgeable instructors who understand not only how to perform bushcraft and survival skills, but also how to effectively teach them and build meaningful educational experiences for others.
Because of the personalized nature of this certification, enrollment is intentionally limited. Every applicant is carefully reviewed to ensure the program is the right fit for both the candidate and Coalcracker Bushcraft.
What Makes This Program Different?
Most instructor certifications focus on testing your knowledge. This program is designed to help you become a complete outdoor educator.
Throughout this year-long experience, you'll receive hands-on instruction and mentorship in:
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Advanced bushcraft and survival skills.
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Effective teaching techniques and instructional methods.
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Developing lesson plans and building engaging class curriculum.
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Organizing and managing successful training programs.
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The business behind outdoor education, including planning, logistics, customer experience, and the systems that support a professional operation.
Our goal is to help you understand not only what to teach, but also how to teach it and how to create exceptional learning experiences.
Who Should Apply?
We're looking for individuals who:
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Have a passion for bushcraft, survival, and the outdoors.
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Enjoy teaching and helping others succeed.
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Value professionalism, integrity, and continuous learning.
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Are committed to personal growth and developing their instructional abilities.
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Are willing to dedicate themselves to a year-long certification program.
Program Dates
September 2026 - August 2027
Additional details regarding the program schedule, curriculum, expectations, and requirements will be discussed during the interview process.
Application Process
Admission into the Coalcracker Instructor Certification is by application and interview only.
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Submit your application.
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Qualified applicants will be invited to an Instructor Candidate Interview with Dan Wowak.
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During the interview, we'll discuss the program, expectations, schedule, and answer any questions you may have.
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If selected, you'll receive an invitation to enroll along with a private registration link to reserve your seat.
Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
Certification
Participants who successfully complete all program requirements will earn the Coalcracker Instructor Certification, recognizing that they have met the instructional and performance standards established by Coalcracker Bushcraft. Applications are now being accepted for the 2026-2027 Founding Class.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Please Note: Receiving this certification does not guarantee employment, franchise rights, licensing, or an instructor position with Coalcracker Bushcraft or Appalachian Bushman School. Opportunities to instruct for Coalcracker, when available, are considered separately based on the needs of the organization and the qualifications of the individual.
Limited Enrollment
To maintain the highest quality learning experience, enrollment is limited to a select number of candidates.
If you're passionate about bushcraft, committed to helping others, and interested in becoming part of the inaugural Coalcracker Bushcraft Instructor Certification, we'd love to learn more about you.
Click the Apply Now button below to begin the application process.